Gilbert Jenkins

Gilbert Jenkins, beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, and brother, passed peacefully into the arms of his Lord Jesus Christ on March 9, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on October 22, 1939, in Crossett, Arkansas.

Gilbert's professional history began with Jacuzzi Brothers before retiring as a programmer for Baptist Health.

In addition to his career, Gilbert had many interests that he enjoyed. He raised Beagles for many years, was an avid deer hunter, enjoyed gardening, and lovingly tending to his yard; he enjoyed golfing in his younger years. In addition to these hobbies, he had also served on the Saline County Board of Directors.

Gilbert was a lifelong member of Beulahland Assembly of God Church in Crossett, Arkansas.

The last two years and nine months of his life were spent at Heartland Rehabilitation and Care Center, where he received care and support from a team that treated him with much kindness.

Gilbert is survived by his wife of 53 years, Winnie Avanell Arnold Jenkins; his children, Mark Steven Jenkins (Susan) of Conway, Arkansas, and Bridgette J. Jenkins McLennan (Patrick) of Knoxville, Tennessee; three grandchildren, Jonathan Lewis Jenkins of Sherwood, Jackson Charles Jenkins of Conway, and Emily Lauren Fisher of Ft. Myers, Florida; and great-granddaughter, Isabella Lauren Brothers, of Ft. Myers, Florida; brothers, Kenny Jenkins of Conway, W.J. Jenkins of Memphis, TN, and Robert Jenkins of Crossett.

Gilbert is preceded in death by his parents, Troy and Icy Lee Jenkins, and his brothers, Bobby and Glen Jenkins. His life was marked by his strength of character and commitment to family.

A visitation to honor and celebrate Gilbert's life will take place on Thursday, March 13, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM at Smith Benton Funeral Home, 322 N. Market St., Benton, AR, 72015. Following the visitation, a graveside service starting at 2:00 PM, will be held at Martinville Cemetery, AR 378 AR-124, in Damascus, AR,72039.

In lieu of flowers, memorials in Gilbert's name may be made to the Dementia Society of America, as well as the Alzheimer's Association.